Sony channel gets united

1 face, 1 voice, 1 true religion...

Sony is rejigging its channel programme to deliver one point of contact for all resellers. The electronics giant hopes the revamped scheme will help get its products into corporate accounts.

Sony "1" promises to be a single integrated partner programme. One website will provide simpler communication with resellers. It will give access to information on all Sony products, incentive schemes, and joint marketing funds.

Sony believes convergence between "IT, AV and telecoms" means more demand for integrated solutions, and therefore the need for a single partner programme.

Richard White, sales director at Centerprise, said: "Sony products are widely perceived as best of breed and the brand of choice by individuals, but are not yet perceived as the best choice by corporate decision makers...we’re confident we’ll increasingly see Sony become corporate policy within the public sector."

Dealers can also access "Why Sony" online sales training.

<pSony is also offering integrated solutions based on vertical market segments including broadcast and professional audio visual, business communications, digital imaging, medical, IT and display, security and storage.

Sony says it will modify and update 1, in reaction to channel feedback. It is launching in Benelux, France, Germany, Spain and the UK. It will then roll out across western and central Europe.